stereotypy

/ˈstɛriəˌtaɪpi/
noun
  1. Repeated, often meaningless movements or actions, sometimes seen in certain medical or psychological conditions.
    • In some animals, stereotypy like pacing in circles can be a sign of stress in captivity.
    • The doctor noted the child's stereotypy and recommended further evaluation for autism spectrum disorder.
    • The patient's stereotypy included constant hand-flapping and rocking back and forth.
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